Thank You, Mike Kelley

In high school, Sonic Youth released their album, “Dirty” in 1992. I remember being so curious/confused about the album cover.

I found out it was artwork by artist, Mike Kelley. I became interested in contemporary art for the first time in my life! And I remember wanting to learn so much more about it!

Earlier this year, Mike Kelley committed suicide following a serious depression. When I heard the shocking news on the radio, memories immediately flooded my head + I became so heartsick. Mike Kelley’s artwork went up against religion, education, childhood + sexuality. His aesthetic has been called repulsive, creepy + ugly. I thought it was really punk rock.

Mike Kelley represented subversion, danger + an entirely voracious new world. That is a world + a time of desire + discovery that I can always go back to in my mind. Thanks to Mike Kelley.